Michael ‘Venom’ Page closed his UFC contract with an underwhelming victory over Nursulton Ruziboev at UFC Paris, winning by unanimous decision despite a lack of the explosive performances fans had hoped for. According to BBC, the fight ended amid jeers from the crowd, marking a subdued exit for the British fighter who has struggled to meet expectations since joining the UFC in 2024.

Underperformance and High Expectations

Page, 39, entered the octagon to a raucous reception from the Parisian crowd; However, his performance against Uzbekistan’s Ruziboev failed to live up to the hype. According to Cageside Press, Ruziboev controlled the first round on the ground, landing a takedown just 15 seconds into the fight; Page attempted a submission but dropped the hold when Ruziboev gave the thumbs up, showing little aggression. The lack of action led to audible frustration from the audience.

Page landed only 12 significant strikes compared to Ruziboev’s eight, per BBC, While he displayed his usual footwork and movement, he lacked the finishing instinct that defines top-level strikers. His attempts at flashy strikes—like an overhead right and an elbow—were few and mostly ineffective, as Ruziboev remained composed, surviving a kick to the knee and maintaining control of the distance during key moments. According to Zamin.uz, Ruziboev described Page’s style as “uncomfortable” and “in constant motion,” and had prepared specifically to counter his unpredictable angles and distance management.

Boos and Unmet Goals

Ruziboev, who had requested a top-15 opponent after his last fight, was awarded a high-profile matchup with Page, whom he described as a “very difficult opponent” but one he believed he could beat. Page had promised a finish ahead of the fight, stating it was “important to re-establish myself with the UFC,” per BBC; However, the result failed to satisfy both the fighters and the fans. “So God wills, I will try to give the fans a beautiful and meaningful fight,” Ruziboev said, according to Zamin.uz.

In the second round, Page managed to initiate a few exchanges, including a side kick to Ruziboev’s knee and a flurry of punches and shoulder strikes. However, Ruziboev remained resilient, surviving the pressure and landing his own leg kicks. According to Cageside Press, Page’s attempts at takedowns and trips were mostly ineffective, and he spent significant time in Ruziboev’s guard without securing a decisive position.

Legacy and Future Uncertain

Page’s victory marked his fifth consecutive decision win in the UFC, but it did little to enhance his reputation as a finisher, though With 13 knockouts to his name before joining the UFC, he has yet to deliver a decisive finish in his five-fight UFC run. According to Cageside Press, his record of 4-1 in the organization has not been enough to secure a prominent position in the lightweight division, while Page has acknowledged his underperformance, calling it a challenge to adapt to the UFC’s expectations.

Despite the loss, Ruziboev expressed satisfaction with the opportunity; “My appeal to the UFC was not unanswered,” he said, according to Zamin.uz, while he requested a top opponent after his last fight and was granted a shot at Page. The fight, though not the finish he wanted, may still serve as a stepping stone for both fighters as they look to continue their careers in the UFC or elsewhere.

With his UFC contract now complete, Page’s future in the organization remains unclear; Whether he returns or moves to a new promotion, his performance in Paris will be remembered more for the boos than the action.